Nature in Fort Lauderdale

NATURE’S PARADISE – Head West & See the Wild Side of South Florida

You’ll want to soak up North Beach Village’s seaside ambiance and stroll our beaches, but inland, west of the Solas Hotel , the expansive Florida Everglades stretches for as far as your eyes could see. Bike in Shark Valley or take an airboat ride for a thrilling tour of this primordial wilderness, where you’ll see live alligators, deer, bears, bald eagles, raccoons, armadillos, panthers, snakes, herons, hawks, vultures and more!

First, before you go directly to the Everglades, plan for at least a day and visit a few places along the way. You’ll want to stop by and flutter among butterflies at Butterfly World‘s aviary. This could be an informative, relaxing and enchanting time.

You’ll also want to visit the Flamingo Gardens, where beautiful and rare gardens, peacocks and owls will delight young and old. Or if you want a little more excitement, take a side trip and visit the snakes and gator pits at rustic Native Village! Your kids will love it!

Of course, many people head straight for the mega-thrills at Florida’s Everglades where eye-opening airboat rides reveal primitive, dreamlike landscapes and intriguing wildlife.

Want to stay closer to home? Stroll to nearby Bonnet House Museum & Gardens. This 1920s 35-acre beachfront estate was the winter home of artists Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. The plantation-style residence is surrounded by lagoons, gardens, fruit groves, a mangrove jungle, wildlife and a desert garden. Visit the shell museum, orchid greenhouse or just marvel at the artwork, decor, hand-painted ceilings, furnishings and porcelain collection.